Beer, bratwurst and fancy dress fun: 4 cities in Germany going big for Oktoberfest
Join in the fun with our guide to the best festivities
Oktoberfest adventures: where to celebrate in Germany
Ready for a beer-fuelled adventure with Bavarian flavour? Oktoberfest isn’t just about lederhosen and giant steins (though they’re part of the fun!), it’s a once-a-year chance to dive into Germany’s most colourful traditions. While Munich might be the spiritual home of Oktoberfest, there are plenty of other German cities that celebrate in style.
Whether you’re after the world’s biggest party, riverside festivities, or a family-friendly vibe, here’s your guide to our top four cities where Oktoberfest really shines.
Munich: the original and the biggest
If Oktoberfest had a capital, it would be Munich. Every year, millions of visitors flock to the famous Theresienwiese grounds for the world's largest beer festival. Picture this: rows of traditional tents, each hosted by Munich’s legendary breweries, offering litres of beer, hearty Bavarian food, and brass bands that keep the energy high.
Travel tip: Book your accommodation early! We're talking, like, really early. Hotels fill up fast, so consider staying a little outside the city centre and use Munich’s excellent public transport to get around.
Stuttgart: the Cannstatter Volksfest
Stuttgart might not be the first city that springs to mind when you're thinking of Oktoberfest, but locals will tell you that their Cannstatter Volksfest is every bit as fun as Munich’s. This festival has roots going back over 200 years and combines beer tents with a huge funfair, making it perfect for travellers who want a slightly more relaxed vibe, without missing out on the party.
Travel tip: Don’t skip the rides! From Ferris wheels to rollercoasters, Stuttgart’s Oktoberfest has plenty of thrills beyond the beer.
Frankfurt: A riverside twist
Frankfurt puts its own spin on Oktoberfest, blending Bavarian tradition with a touch of cosmopolitan flair. You can expect classic beer tents alongside events with live DJs and plenty of places to enjoy a riverside drink along the Main. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re looking to mix sightseeing in a modern financial hub with an authentic festive atmosphere.
Travel tip: Combine your trip with a stroll through Frankfurt’s charming Römerberg square, as it’s picture-perfect, especially in autumn.
Hamburg: Northern charm meets Bavarian spirit
Up north, Hamburg shows that you don’t need to be in Bavaria to party like a Bavarian. The city hosts multiple Oktoberfest events, including a lively one right in the heart of St. Pauli. With its famous nightlife and harbour views, Hamburg offers a unique twist on tradition. You’ll get the beer, pretzels, and music, but with a distinctly northern German edge.
Travel tip: Be sure you make time to explore Hamburg’s Speicherstadt (historic warehouse district). It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a great way to balance festival nights with cultural days.
Prost to your Oktoberfest adventure
Whether you go for Munich’s world-famous tents, Stuttgart’s funfair mix, Frankfurt’s riverside flair, or Hamburg’s northern charm, Germany has an Oktoberfest experience for every type of traveller. So pack your dirndl or lederhosen, brush up on your “Prost!”, and get ready for an unforgettable autumn adventure.
